“I had no direction in my life whatsoever when I came here… Now I want to go back to school to become an addiction therapist, so that I can be part of other people’s recovery and a positive force in their life like the staff at Beaches was for me.”

What is the Difference between THC vs CBD?

With the growing trend toward the legalization of marijuana, there are plenty of markets for new products springing up. In medical marijuana circles, people talk about two specific products in particular. Frequently, discussions take on a THC vs CBD tone. Here’s what you need to know about them

A Brief Introduction to Cannabinoids

Cannabis is the scientific name of the plant. Cannabinoids are active ingredients. It’s easy to believe that there are only two because of the THC vs CBD questions. In fact, there are many more cannabinoids that experts are uncovering. That said, these two are getting the most press.

Understanding What the THC vs CBD Discussion is About

Cannabidiol (CBD) doesn’t cause a high. It’s useful for helping with pain management, appetite, and sleep. It’s most plentiful in hemp even though it’s also part of a marijuana plant’s makeup. When talking about medical marijuana, this compound is typically the topic of discussion.

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the compound that causes the high you get from smoking marijuana. You find some of it in the hemp plant, too. People who support the legalization of marijuana for recreational purposes refer to this compound. An entire underground industry has developed that seeks to boost THC content in the plants.

Whereas CBD can be legal, depending on its origin, THC typically isn’t. The latter substance can cause a form of intoxication. Symptoms include delays in reaction times, memory problems, and heart rate spikes. That said, this substance does have medicinal uses for people undergoing chemotherapy or glaucoma treatments.

Developing a Marijuana Addiction

If you’re smoking marijuana, you’re familiar with the effects of THC. Government officials recognize a form of dependency that they termed marijuana use disorder. The younger you are when you start using, the more likely you are to develop it. Another factor is the potency of the THC in the drug you’re using.

Some physical marijuana withdrawal symptoms go along with an effort to stop using the drug. Examples include mood swings, insomnia, overall discomfort, and intense cravings. It’s not completely clear where the line is between addiction and dependency. Experts suggest that the tipping point in this debate has to do with drug-independent neurotransmitter release.

Overcoming a Dependency on THC

Are you struggling with a dependency on THC? Rehab is the answer. Depending on your level of need, different treatment delivery options include:

Residential care at a rehab facility that provides the highest level of treatment and supervision

Extended care for program participants who need a little extra time overcoming dependency

Transitional living that enables you to ease out of residential care without immediately proceeding to independent living